If you are craving a bold, flavorful dish that is bursting with a perfect balance of heat and garlic goodness, this Chili Garlic Chicken Recipe is going to be your new go-to. Tender chicken bites coated in a sticky, tangy sauce with a kick of spice make each bite incredibly satisfying. Simple to prepare yet packed with layers of savory, spicy, and slightly sweet flavors, this recipe turns an everyday dinner into a vibrant, comforting meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to achieving the incredible taste and texture in this Chili Garlic Chicken Recipe. Each ingredient plays an essential role, whether it is building the spicy, garlicky sauce or making the chicken juicy and golden brown.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts: Choose thighs for extra tenderness or breasts for leaner meat, all cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking.
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil: Used for a nice sear on the chicken and to sauté the aromatics without burning.
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced: Adds a fragrant, warming spice that cuts through the richness perfectly.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: The star of this recipe that brings that unmistakable chili garlic aroma and flavor.
- 2 tbsp soy sauce: Provides savory umami depth and a subtle salty edge.
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce: Adds a rich, slightly sweet complexity that enhances the umami profile.
- 1 tbsp chili garlic sauce: The source of heat and tang that defines the recipe; adjust according to your spice tolerance.
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar: Brings a bright acidity that balances the sauce beautifully.
- 1 tsp sugar: Softens the sharpness of the vinegar and sauces for a harmonious finish.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: Gives just the right touch of warmth without overpowering the chili.
- 2 green onions, sliced: Fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of vibrant green color for garnish.
- Sesame seeds (optional): Adds subtle nutty crunch and visual appeal for the final touch.
How to Make Chili Garlic Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
Start by heating vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add your bite-sized chicken pieces, cooking them for 5 to 6 minutes, turning occasionally until they are beautifully golden brown and cooked through. This step creates a flavorful crust and locks in the juicy tenderness of the chicken. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside to keep warm.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In the same skillet, add a little more oil if the pan looks dry, then toss in the minced ginger and garlic. Sauté them for about 30 seconds until the kitchen is filled with that irresistible fragrant aroma. This quick step builds the aromatic foundation needed to elevate the dish.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
Next, stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce, chili garlic sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and black pepper directly into the pan with the aromatics. Allow the sauce to come to a gentle simmer and cook for 1 to 2 minutes. This lets all the flavors meld together beautifully, creating a vibrant sauce that is balanced between savory, spicy, sweet, and tangy.
Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Return the cooked chicken pieces to the pan and toss thoroughly to coat each piece generously in the flavorful sauce. Let it cook for another 1 to 2 minutes so the chicken soaks up all the delicious sauce and everything is piping hot before serving.
How to Serve Chili Garlic Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
To make your Chili Garlic Chicken Recipe truly shine, sprinkle a handful of sliced green onions and optionally, some toasted sesame seeds on top. These garnishes add freshness, texture, a delightful crunch, and a pop of color that takes the presentation to the next level.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or fluffy fried rice to soak up the sauce. You can also serve it alongside stir-fried noodles or a simple vegetable stir-fry like bok choy or snap peas to add contrasting textures and keep your meal well-rounded and vibrant.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more casual, family-style feast, serve the Chili Garlic Chicken Recipe in a big bowl right at the center of the table with all your favorite sides. Or, get creative by stuffing the saucy chicken into warm bao buns for an Asian-inspired sandwich, or atop crisp lettuce leaves for a lighter, low-carb option that’s both fun and fresh.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, let the chicken cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, it will keep well for up to 3 days, making it a perfect option for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.
Freezing
This Chili Garlic Chicken Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers or bags, remove as much air as possible, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you want a speedy meal, just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently for a convenient dinner solution.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the chicken gently on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave in bursts, stirring occasionally to evenly warm the sauce without drying out the chicken. Adding a splash of water or broth can help maintain saucy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts work well, especially if you prefer leaner meat, though they can be slightly less juicy than thighs. Just be careful not to overcook them to keep the meat tender.
How spicy is this recipe?
The recipe has a nice moderate heat from the chili garlic sauce, but you can easily adjust the spice level by adding more sauce or even some crushed red pepper flakes if you want that extra kick.
Is there a vegetarian alternative?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with firm tofu or even shrimp for different protein options. Just cook them with the same sauce for equally delicious results that keep the spirit of this recipe alive.
What can I use if I don’t have oyster sauce?
If you’re out of oyster sauce, you can substitute with a combination of hoisin sauce and soy sauce or simply add a bit more soy sauce with a touch of sugar to mimic the sweetness and depth.
Can I prep the sauce ahead of time?
Definitely! The sauce can be mixed ahead and stored in the fridge for a couple of days. When cooking, just sauté the ginger and garlic fresh, then pour in the pre-made sauce to heat through, saving you some valuable time.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting and exciting about whipping up this Chili Garlic Chicken Recipe. It manages to feel special yet comes together so quickly, making it a fantastic choice for any night of the week. If you love bold, delicious flavors that pack a punch without complicated steps, I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this recipe a try – your taste buds will thank you!
